Disney World Launches New Behind the Scenes Tours

Disney Institute, Walt Disney World's professional development arm, is offering new behind-the-scenes opportunities for visitors to get an insider look at operations at the four Orlando parks.

The backstage tours are all led by experienced cast members and open to visitors age 16 and up.

Brand new is "Inspiration: Through Walt's Eyes," a 3-hour tour that looks at Disney from the perspective of Walt Disney himself.

"From Disney's Hollywood Studios to Main Street USA at Magic Kingdom, participants learn about the pivotal moments in Walt's life that helped him create everything from innovative animation techniques to new ideas in family entertainment," Disney says. Offered year-round, the tour is priced at $99 per person.

Newly revamped is a 7-hour "Backstage Magic" tour where participants learn about special effects, entertainment and attractions at all the WDW parks, including a backstage look at the Jammin' Jungle Parade at Animal Kingdom. "The tour explores the art, horticulture, landscaping and costume design that work together to create an immersive and magical experience for guests," Disney says. The tour is priced at $224, and available year-round.

The Disney Institute's roster also includes two Christmastime tours. The "Holiday D-Lights" tour ($199), introduced in December, takes guests to visit Epcot, the Magic Kingdom and Disney's Hollywood Studios, with stops to see and discuss holiday lighting. "Yuletide Fantasy" ($84) explores Disney's holiday decorations, including at World Showcase at Epcot and the bows and bells lining Main Street USA at Magic Kingdom. Length of these tours varies.